A police dog has died in a “tragic accident” after he was hit by a vehicle while chasing suspected criminals.
Four-year-old Rebus was struck by a police 4×4 while involved in a pursuit in the early hours of Wednesday morning in Colnwick, Nottingham, police said.
The German Shepherd-Belgian Shepherd cross was given emergency care at the scene but died of his injuries with his handler by his side.
Chief Inspector Andy Hall, of the East Midlands Operational Support Service (EMOpSS), said: “This incident is being fully and actively reviewed, and we await the findings.
“I take the view at this time, however, that it appears to have been a tragic accident.
“I would like to acknowledge and commend the care given to Rebus in his time of need.
“Not only did an officer provide CPR at the scene, a number of members of the public offered their assistance.
“A valued police dog and a loyal companion, Rebus certainly would have known he was loved.
“Our colleague is devastated and the officer who was driving the vehicle is understandably distressed.
“They are being supported by their team and they in turn are being supported by their associates.
“Rebus was not only a fine police dog, he was a member of our policing family.
“His impeccable service was acknowledged at a memorial today in which DCC Sue Fish laid a wreath in his honour.”
Rebus joined Nottinghamshire Police as a pup in July 2012, and in his four years of service he helped catch numerous suspects, police said.
Since the launch of EMOpSS in May last year he had attended 313 incidents.
Three teenage boys were arrested on suspicion of theft following the incident in which Rebus was killed.
The two 15-year-olds and a 17-year-old remain in police custody for questioning.